American Concrete Institute

The "Contractor's Guide" is written by and for contractors and provides insight into proven construction practices. Topics include organizing for quality, concrete mix designs, specifications, foundations, formwork, preparation, reinforcement, common field problems, safety, and concrete placing and finishing. The guide can be used as a training manual or as a basic reference for the field and office. Cost is $34 for ACI members, $61.50 for nonmembers.

"Formwork for Concrete" explains basic formwork design principles and provides an introduction to many common formwork practices. It is a ready reference for information on material properties, design data, and construction suggestions. The seventh edition includes new material on single-sided wall forms, insulating concrete forms, pressure formulas with coefficients for differing weights and mix chemistries, and expanded text on multistory shoring systems. Cost is $103 for ACI members, $171.50 for nonmembers.

The publications can be ordered from the American Concrete Institute by visiting www.concrete.org or by calling (248) 848-3800.